Methods and compositions for predicting drug responses

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for predicting drug responses. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for determining individualized Warfarin dosages based on the level of expression of the VKORC1 gene.

This application is a continuation in part of co-pending application Ser. No. 10/967,879, filed Oct. 18, 2004, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This application was supported in part by NHLBI—Program for Genomic Applications (PGA) grant (U01 HL66682), Program for Genomic Applications (PGA) grant U01 HL66682, NIH General Medical Sciences grant GM068797 and UW NIEHS sponsored Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health, grant NIEHS P30ES07033. The government has certain rights in the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for predicting drug responses. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for determining individualized Warfarin dosages based on the level of expression of the VKORC1 gene.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

More than 3 billion prescriptions are written each year in the U.S. alone, effectively preventing or treating illness in hundreds of millions of people. But prescription medications also can cause powerful toxic effects in a patient. These effects are called adverse drug reactions (ADR). Adverse drug reactions can cause serious injury and or even death. Differences in the ways in which individuals utilize and eliminate drugs from their bodies are one of the most important causes of ADRs. Differences in metabolism also cause doses of drugs to be less effective than desired in some individuals.

More than 106,000 Americans die—three times as many as are killed in automobile accidents—and an additional 2.1 million are seriously injured every year due to adverse drug reactions. ADRs are the fourth leading cause of death for Americans. Only heart disease, cancer and stroke cause more deaths each year. Seven percent of all hospital patients are affected by serious or fatal ADRs. More than two-thirds of all ADRs occur outside hospitals. Adverse drug reactions are a severe, common and growing cause of death, disability and resource consumption.

It is estimated that drug-related anomalies account for nearly 10 percent of all hospital admissions. Drug-related morbidity and mortality in the U.S. is estimated to cost from $76.6 to $136 billion annually.

Most prescription drugs are currently prescribed at standard doses in a “one size fits all” method. This “one size fits all” method, however, does not consider important genetic differences that give different individuals dramatically different abilities to metabolize and derive benefit from a particular drug. Genetic differences may be influenced by race or ethnicity, but may also be largely unpredictable without identifying correlating genomics. What is needed are improved methods for predicting an individual's response to a given drug or a particular dosage of a drug.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for predicting drug responses. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for determining individualized Warfarin dosages based on the level of expression of the VKORC1 gene.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the present invention provides compositions, kits, and methods for determining the level of VKORC1 gene expression (e.g., by measuring VKORC1 mRNA or protein expression) and correlating expression levels with Warfarin dosages.

For example, in some embodiments, the present invention provides a method, comprising: providing a sample from a subject; and determining the subject's VKORC1 expression level to determine responsiveness to Warfarin therapy. In some embodiments, the method further comprised the step of determining the subject's optimal Warfarin dose based on the subject's VKORC1 expression level. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises the step of determining said subject's CYP2C9 genotype. In some embodiments, determining the subject's VKORC1 expression level comprises determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by said subject (e.g., by using a quantitative RT-PCR assay or a nucleic acid hybridization assay). In other embodiments, determining the subject's VKORC1 expression level comprises determining the amount of VKORC1 polypeptide expressed by the subject (e.g., by exposing the sample to an antibody that specifically binds to the VKORC1 polypeptide).

The present invention further provides a kit for determining a subject optimal Warfarin dosage, comprising: reagents for performing a detection assay, wherein the detection assay is configured to specifically detect the subject's VKORC1 expression level; and instructions for determining the subject's optimal Warfarin dosage. In some embodiments, the reagents comprise reagents for determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by the subject (e.g., reagents for a quantitative RT-PCR assay or a nucleic acid hybridization assay). In other embodiments, the reagents comprise reagents for determining the amount of VKORC1 polypeptide expressed by the subject (e.g., an antibody that specifically binds to the VKORC1 polypeptide). In some embodiments, the kit further comprises reagents for determining said subject's CYP2C9 genotype.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows the effect of VKORC1 genealogic clades on clinical warfarin dose. The upper panel shows common haplotypes determined from VKORC1 (H1, H2, H7, H8, and H9). The lower panel shows Warfarin dosages for clinical patients (n=185) classified according to known functional mutations at the CYP2C9 locus and VKORC1 Clade (A/A (white bars), A/B (grey bars), and B/B (black bars).

FIG. 2 shows the nucleic acid sequence of the extended genomic reference sequence for the VKORC1 (SEQ ID NO:1) gene.

FIG. 3 shows that VKORC1 haplotype groups correlate with mRNA expression.

DEFINITIONS

To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a number of terms and phrases are defined below:

As used herein, the term “single nucleotide polymorphism” or “SNP”, refers to any position along a nucleotide sequence that has one or more variant nucleotides. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most common form of DNA sequence variation found in the human genome and are generally defined as a difference from the baseline reference DNA sequence which has been produced as part of the Human Genome Project or as a difference found between a subset of individuals drawn from the population at large. SNPs occur at an average rate of approximately 1 SNP/1000 base pairs when comparing any two randomly chosen human chromosomes. Extremely rare SNPs can be identified which may be restricted to a specific individual or family, or conversely can be found to be extremely common in the general population (present in many unrelated individuals). SNPs can arise due to errors in DNA replication (i.e., spontaneously) or due to mutagenic agents (i.e., from a specific DNA damaging material) and can be transmitted during reproduction of the organism to subsequent generations of individuals.

As used herein, the term “linkage disequilibrium” refers to single nucleotide polymorphisms where the genotypes are correlated between these polymorphisms. Several statistical measures can be used to quantify this relationship (i.e. D′, r², etc) reference (See e.g., Devlin and Risch 1995 Sep. 20;29(2):311-22). In some embodiments, a SNP-SNP pair is considered to be in linkage disequilibrium if r²>0.5,

As used herein, the term “haplotype” refers to a group of closely linked alleles that are inherited together.

As used herein, the term “haplotype clade” or “clade” refers to any group of haplotypes that are all more similar to one another than any of them is to any other haplotype. Clades may be identified, for example, by performing statistical cluster analysis.

As used herein, the term “subject” refers to any animal (e.g., a mammal), including, but not limited to, humans, non-human primates, rodents, and the like. Typically, the terms “subject” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein in reference to a human subject.

As used herein, the term “non-human transgenic animal” refers to a non-human animal (preferable a mammal, more preferably a mouse) whose endogenous VKORC1 gene has been inactivated (e.g., as the result of a “VKORC1” or a “VKORC1 knock-in”) or altered (e.g., contains a polymorphic form of the VKORC1 gene).

As used herein, the term “non-human animals” refers to all non-human animals including, but are not limited to, vertebrates such as rodents, non-human primates, ovines, bovines, ruminants, lagomorphs, porcines, caprines, equines, canines, felines, aves, etc.

As used herein, the term “gene transfer system” refers to any means of delivering a composition comprising a nucleic acid sequence to a cell or tissue. For example, gene transfer systems include, but are not limited to, vectors (e.g., retroviral, adenoviral, adeno-associated viral, and other nucleic acid-based delivery systems), microinjection of naked nucleic acid, polymer-based delivery systems (e.g., liposome-based and metallic particle-based systems), biolistic injection, and the like. As used herein, the term “viral gene transfer system” refers to gene transfer systems comprising viral elements (e.g., intact viruses, modified viruses and viral components such as nucleic acids or proteins) to facilitate delivery of the sample to a desired cell or tissue. As used herein, the term “adenovirus gene transfer system” refers to gene transfer systems comprising intact or altered viruses belonging to the family Adenoviridae.

As used herein, the term “site-specific recombination target sequences” refers to nucleic acid sequences that provide recognition sequences for recombination factors and the location where recombination takes place.

As used herein, the term “nucleic acid molecule” refers to any nucleic acid containing molecule, including but not limited to, DNA or RNA. The term encompasses sequences that include any of the known base analogs of DNA and RNA including, but not limited to, 4-acetylcytosine, 8-hydroxy-N-6-methyladenosine, aziridinylcytosine, pseudoisocytosine, 5-(carboxyhydroxylmethyl) uracil, 5-fluorouracil, 5-bromouracil, 5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-2-thiouracil, 5-carboxymethylaminomethyluracil, dihydrouracil, inosine, N6-isopentenyladenine, 1-methyladenine, 1-methylpseudouracil, 1-methylguanine, 1-methylinosine, 2,2-dimethylguanine, 2-methyladenine, 2-methylguanine, 3-methylcytosine, 5-methylcytosine, N6-methyladenine, 7-methylguanine, 5-methylaminomethyluracil, 5-methoxyaminomethyl-2-thiouracil, beta-D-mannosylqueosine, 5′-methoxycarbonylmethyluracil, 5-methoxyuracil, 2-methylthio-N-6-isopentenyladenine, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid methylester, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid, oxybutoxosine, pseudouracil, queosine, 2-thiocytosine, 5-methyl-2-thiouracil, 2-thiouracil, 4-thiouracil, 5-methyluracil, N-uracil-5-oxyacetic acid methylester, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid, pseudouracil, queosine, 2-thiocytosine, and 2,6-diaminopurine.

The term “gene” refers to a nucleic acid (e.g., DNA) sequence that comprises coding sequences necessary for the production of a polypeptide, precursor, or RNA (e.g., rRNA, tRNA). The polypeptide can be encoded by a full length coding sequence or by any portion of the coding sequence so long as the desired activity or functional properties (e.g., enzymatic activity, ligand binding, signal transduction, immunogenicity, etc.) of the full-length or fragment are retained. The term also encompasses the coding region of a structural gene and the sequences located adjacent to the coding region on both the 5′ and 3′ ends for a distance of about 5 kb or more on either end such that the gene corresponds to the length of the full-length mRNA. Sequences located 5′ of the coding region and present on the mRNA are referred to as 5′ untranslated sequences. Sequences located 3′ or downstream of the coding region and present on the mRNA are referred to as 3′ untranslated sequences. The term “gene” encompasses both cDNA and genomic forms of a gene. A genomic form or clone of a gene contains the coding region interrupted with non-coding sequences termed “introns” or “intervening regions” or “intervening sequences.” Introns are segments of a gene that are transcribed into nuclear RNA (hnRNA); introns may contain regulatory elements such as enhancers. Introns are removed or “spliced out” from the nuclear or primary transcript; introns therefore are absent in the messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript. The mRNA functions during translation to specify the sequence or order of amino acids in a nascent polypeptide.

As used herein, the term “heterologous gene” refers to a gene that is not in its natural environment. For example, a heterologous gene includes a gene from one species introduced into another species. A heterologous gene also includes a gene native to an organism that has been altered in some way (e.g., mutated, added in multiple copies, linked to non-native regulatory sequences, etc). Heterologous genes are distinguished from endogenous genes in that the heterologous gene sequences are typically joined to DNA sequences that are not found naturally associated with the gene sequences in the chromosome or are associated with portions of the chromosome not found in nature (e.g., genes expressed in loci where the gene is not normally expressed).

As used herein, the term “transgene” refers to a heterologous gene that is integrated into the genome of an organism (e.g., a non-human animal) and that is transmitted to progeny of the organism during sexual reproduction.

As used herein, the term “transgenic organism” refers to an organism (e.g., a non-human animal) that has a transgene integrated into its genome and that transmits the transgene to its progeny during sexual reproduction.

As used herein, the term “gene expression” refers to the process of converting genetic information encoded in a gene into RNA (e.g., mRNA, rRNA, tRNA, or snRNA) through “transcription” of the gene (i.e., via the enzymatic action of an RNA polymerase), and for protein encoding genes, into protein through “translation” of mRNA. Gene expression can be regulated at many stages in the process. “Up-regulation” or “activation” refers to regulation that increases the production of gene expression products (i.e., RNA or protein), while “down-regulation” or “repression” refers to regulation that decreases production. Molecules (e.g., transcription factors) that are involved in up-regulation or down-regulation are often called “activators” and “repressors,” respectively.

In addition to containing introns, genomic forms of a gene may also include sequences located on both the 5′ and 3′ end of the sequences that are present on the RNA transcript. These sequences are referred to as “flanking” sequences or regions (these flanking sequences are located 5′ or 3′ to the non-translated sequences present on the mRNA transcript). The 5′ flanking region may contain regulatory sequences such as promoters and enhancers that control or influence the transcription of the gene. The 3′ flanking region may contain sequences that direct the termination of transcription, post-transcriptional cleavage and polyadenylation.

The term “wild-type” refers to a gene or gene product isolated from a naturally occurring source. A wild-type gene is that which is most frequently observed in a population and is thus arbitrarily designed the “normal” or “wild-type” form of the gene. In contrast, the term “modified” or “mutant” refers to a gene or gene product that displays modifications in sequence and or functional properties (i.e., altered characteristics) when compared to the wild-type gene or gene product. It is noted that naturally occurring mutants can be isolated; these are identified by the fact that they have altered characteristics (including altered nucleic acid sequences) when compared to the wild-type gene or gene product.

As used herein, the terms “nucleic acid molecule encoding,” “DNA sequence encoding,” and “DNA encoding” refer to the order or sequence of deoxyribonucleotides along a strand of deoxyribonucleic acid. The order of these deoxyribonucleotides determines the order of amino acids along the polypeptide (protein) chain. The DNA sequence thus codes for the amino acid sequence.

As used herein, the terms “an oligonucleotide having a nucleotide sequence encoding a gene” and “polynucleotide having a nucleotide sequence encoding a gene,” means a nucleic acid sequence comprising the coding region of a gene or in other words the nucleic acid sequence that encodes a gene product. The coding region may be present in a cDNA, genomic DNA or RNA form. When present in a DNA form, the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide may be single-stranded (i.e., the sense strand) or double-stranded. Suitable control elements such as enhancers/promoters, splice junctions, polyadenylation signals, etc. may be placed in close proximity to the coding region of the gene if needed to permit proper initiation of transcription and/or correct processing of the primary RNA transcript. Alternatively, the coding region utilized in the expression vectors of the present invention may contain endogenous enhancers/promoters, splice junctions, intervening sequences, polyadenylation signals, etc. or a combination of both endogenous and exogenous control elements.

As used herein, the term “oligonucleotide,” refers to a short length of single-stranded polynucleotide chain. Oligonucleotides are typically less than 200 residues long (e.g., between 15 and 100), however, as used herein, the term is also intended to encompass longer polynucleotide chains. Oligonucleotides are often referred to by their length. For example a 24 residue oligonucleotide is referred to as a “24-mer”. Oligonucleotides can form secondary and tertiary structures by self-hybridizing or by hybridizing to other polynucleotides. Such structures can include, but are not limited to, duplexes, hairpins, cruciforms, bends, and triplexes.

As used herein, the terms “complementary” or “complementarity” are used in reference to polynucleotides (i.e., a sequence of nucleotides) related by the base-pairing rules. For example, for the sequence “5′-A-G-T-3′,” is complementary to the sequence “3′-T-C-A-5′.” Complementarity may be “partial,” in which only some of the nucleic acids' bases are matched according to the base pairing rules. Or, there may be “complete” or “total” complementarity between the nucleic acids. The degree of complementarity between nucleic acid strands has significant effects on the efficiency and strength of hybridization between nucleic acid strands. This is of particular importance in amplification reactions, as well as detection methods that depend upon binding between nucleic acids.

The term “homology” refers to a degree of complementarity. There may be partial homology or complete homology (i.e., identity). A partially complementary sequence is a nucleic acid molecule that at least partially inhibits a completely complementary nucleic acid molecule from hybridizing to a target nucleic acid is “substantially homologous.” The inhibition of hybridization of the completely complementary sequence to the target sequence may be examined using a hybridization assay (Southern or Northern blot, solution hybridization and the like) under conditions of low stringency. A substantially homologous sequence or probe will compete for and inhibit the binding (i.e., the hybridization) of a completely homologous nucleic acid molecule to a target under conditions of low stringency. This is not to say that conditions of low stringency are such that non-specific binding is permitted; low stringency conditions require that the binding of two sequences to one another be a specific (i.e., selective) interaction. The absence of non-specific binding may be tested by the use of a second target that is substantially non-complementary (e.g., less than about 30% identity); in the absence of non-specific binding the probe will not hybridize to the second non-complementary target.

When used in reference to a double-stranded nucleic acid sequence such as a cDNA or genomic clone, the term “substantially homologous” refers to any probe that can hybridize to either or both strands of the double-stranded nucleic acid sequence under conditions of low stringency as described above.

A gene may produce multiple RNA species that are generated by differential splicing of the primary RNA transcript. cDNAs that are splice variants of the same gene will contain regions of sequence identity or complete homology (representing the presence of the same exon or portion of the same exon on both cDNAs) and regions of complete non-identity (for example, representing the presence of exon “A” on cDNA 1 wherein cDNA 2 contains exon “B” instead). Because the two cDNAs contain regions of sequence identity they will both hybridize to a probe derived from the entire gene or portions of the gene containing sequences found on both cDNAs; the two splice variants are therefore substantially homologous to such a probe and to each other.

When used in reference to a single-stranded nucleic acid sequence, the term “substantially homologous” refers to any probe that can hybridize (i.e., it is the complement of) the single-stranded nucleic acid sequence under conditions of low stringency as described above.

As used herein, the term “hybridization” is used in reference to the pairing of complementary nucleic acids. Hybridization and the strength of hybridization (i.e., the strength of the association between the nucleic acids) is impacted by such factors as the degree of complementary between the nucleic acids, stringency of the conditions involved, the T_(m) of the formed hybrid, and the G:C ratio within the nucleic acids. A single molecule that contains pairing of complementary nucleic acids within its structure is said to be “self-hybridized.”

As used herein, the term “T_(m)” is used in reference to the “melting temperature.” The melting temperature is the temperature at which a population of double-stranded nucleic acid molecules becomes half dissociated into single strands. The equation for calculating the T_(m) of nucleic acids is well known in the art. As indicated by standard references, a simple estimate of the T_(m) value may be calculated by the equation: T_(m)=81.5+0.41(% G+C), when a nucleic acid is in aqueous solution at 1 M NaCl (See e.g., Anderson and Young, Quantitative Filter Hybridization, in Nucleic Acid Hybridization [1985]). Other references include more sophisticated computations that take structural as well as sequence characteristics into account for the calculation of T_(m).

As used herein the term “stringency” is used in reference to the conditions of temperature, ionic strength, and the presence of other compounds such as organic solvents, under which nucleic acid hybridizations are conducted. Under “low stringency conditions” a nucleic acid sequence of interest will hybridize to its exact complement, sequences with single base mismatches, closely related sequences (e.g., sequences with 90% or greater homology), and sequences having only partial homology (e.g., sequences with 50-90% homology). Under “medium stringency conditions,” a nucleic acid sequence of interest will hybridize only to its exact complement, sequences with single base mismatches, and closely relation sequences (e.g., 90% or greater homology). Under “high stringency conditions,” a nucleic acid sequence of interest will hybridize only to its exact complement, and (depending on conditions such a temperature) sequences with single base mismatches. In other words, under conditions of high stringency the temperature can be raised so as to exclude hybridization to sequences with single base mismatches.

“High stringency conditions” when used in reference to nucleic acid hybridization comprise conditions equivalent to binding or hybridization at 42° C. in a solution consisting of 5×SSPE (43.8 g/l NaCl, 6.9 g/l NaH₂PO₄.H₂O and 1.85 g/l EDTA, pH adjusted to 7.4 with NaOH), 0.5% SDS, 5× Denhardt's reagent and 100 μg/ml denatured salmon sperm DNA followed by washing in a solution comprising 0.1×SSPE, 1.0% SDS at 42° C. when a probe of about 500 nucleotides in length is employed.

“Medium stringency conditions” when used in reference to nucleic acid hybridization comprise conditions equivalent to binding or hybridization at 42° C. in a solution consisting of 5×SSPE (43.8 g/l NaCl, 6.9 g/l NaH₂PO₄.H₂O and 1.85 g/l EDTA, pH adjusted to 7.4 with NaOH), 0.5% SDS, 5× Denhardt's reagent and 100 μg/ml denatured salmon sperm DNA followed by washing in a solution comprising 1.0×SSPE, 1.0% SDS at 42° C. when a probe of about 500 nucleotides in length is employed.

“Low stringency conditions” comprise conditions equivalent to binding or hybridization at 42° C. in a solution consisting of 5×SSPE (43.8 g/l NaCl, 6.9 g/l NaH₂PO₄.H₂O and 1.85 g/l EDTA, pH adjusted to 7.4 with NaOH), 0.1% SDS, 5× Denhardt's reagent [50× Denhardt's contains per 500 ml: 5 g Ficoll (Type 400, Pharamcia), 5 g BSA (Fraction V; Sigma)] and 100 μg/ml denatured salmon sperm DNA followed by washing in a solution comprising 5×SSPE, 0.1% SDS at 42° C. when a probe of about 500 nucleotides in length is employed.

The art knows well that numerous equivalent conditions may be employed to comprise low stringency conditions; factors such as the length and nature (DNA, RNA, base composition) of the probe and nature of the target (DNA, RNA, base composition, present in solution or immobilized, etc.) and the concentration of the salts and other components (e.g., the presence or absence of formamide, dextran sulfate, polyethylene glycol) are considered and the hybridization solution may be varied to generate conditions of low stringency hybridization different from, but equivalent to, the above listed conditions. In addition, the art knows conditions that promote hybridization under conditions of high stringency (e.g., increasing the temperature of the hybridization and/or wash steps, the use of formamide in the hybridization solution, etc.) (see definition above for “stringency”).

As used herein, the term “detection assay” refers to an assay for detecting the presence of absence of variant nucleic acid sequences (e.g., polymorphism or mutations) in a given allele of a particular gene (e.g., the VKORC1 gene).

The term “isolated” when used in relation to a nucleic acid, as in “an isolated oligonucleotide” or “isolated polynucleotide” refers to a nucleic acid sequence that is identified and separated from at least one component or contaminant with which it is ordinarily associated in its natural source. Isolated nucleic acid is such present in a form or setting that is different from that in which it is found in nature. In contrast, non-isolated nucleic acids as nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA found in the state they exist in nature. For example, a given DNA sequence (e.g., a gene) is found on the host cell chromosome in proximity to neighboring genes; RNA sequences, such as a specific mRNA sequence encoding a specific protein, are found in the cell as a mixture with numerous other mRNAs that encode a multitude of proteins. However, isolated nucleic acid encoding a given protein includes, by way of example, such nucleic acid in cells ordinarily expressing the given protein where the nucleic acid is in a chromosomal location different from that of natural cells, or is otherwise flanked by a different nucleic acid sequence than that found in nature. The isolated nucleic acid, oligonucleotide, or polynucleotide may be present in single-stranded or double-stranded form. When an isolated nucleic acid, oligonucleotide or polynucleotide is to be utilized to express a protein, the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide will contain at a minimum the sense or coding strand (i.e., the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide may be single-stranded), but may contain both the sense and anti-sense strands (i.e., the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide may be double-stranded).

As used herein, the term “purified” or “to purify” refers to the removal of components (e.g., contaminants) from a sample. For example, antibodies are purified by removal of contaminating non-immunoglobulin proteins; they are also purified by the removal of immunoglobulin that does not bind to the target molecule. The removal of non-immunoglobulin proteins and/or the removal of immunoglobulins that do not bind to the target molecule results in an increase in the percent of target-reactive immunoglobulins in the sample. In another example, recombinant polypeptides are expressed in bacterial host cells and the polypeptides are purified by the removal of host cell proteins; the percent of recombinant polypeptides is thereby increased in the sample.

“Amino acid sequence” and terms such as “polypeptide” or “protein” are not meant to limit the amino acid sequence to the complete, native amino acid sequence associated with the recited protein molecule.

The term “native protein” as used herein to indicate that a protein does not contain amino acid residues encoded by vector sequences; that is, the native protein contains only those amino acids found in the protein as it occurs in nature. A native protein may be produced by recombinant means or may be isolated from a naturally occurring source.

As used herein the term “portion” when in reference to a protein (as in “a portion of a given protein”) refers to fragments of that protein. The fragments may range in size from four amino acid residues to the entire amino acid sequence minus one amino acid.

As used herein, the term “vector” is used in reference to nucleic acid molecules that transfer DNA segment(s) from one cell to another. The term “vehicle” is sometimes used interchangeably with “vector.” Vectors are often derived from plasmids, bacteriophages, or plant or animal viruses.

The term “expression vector” as used herein refers to a recombinant DNA molecule containing a desired coding sequence and appropriate nucleic acid sequences necessary for the expression of the operably linked coding sequence in a particular host organism. Nucleic acid sequences necessary for expression in prokaryotes usually include a promoter, an operator (optional), and a ribosome binding site, often along with other sequences. Eukaryotic cells are known to utilize promoters, enhancers, and termination and polyadenylation signals.

The terms “overexpression” and “overexpressing” and grammatical equivalents, are used in reference to levels of mRNA to indicate a level of expression approximately 3-fold higher (or greater) than that observed in a given tissue in a control or non-transgenic animal. Levels of mRNA are measured using any of a number of techniques known to those skilled in the art including, but not limited to Northern blot analysis. Appropriate controls are included on the Northern blot to control for differences in the amount of RNA loaded from each tissue analyzed (e.g., the amount of 28S rRNA, an abundant RNA transcript present at essentially the same amount in all tissues, present in each sample can be used as a means of normalizing or standardizing the mRNA-specific signal observed on Northern blots). The amount of mRNA present in the band corresponding in size to the correctly spliced transgene RNA is quantified; other minor species of RNA which hybridize to the transgene probe are not considered in the quantification of the expression of the transgenic mRNA.

The term “transfection” as used herein refers to the introduction of foreign DNA into eukaryotic cells. Transfection may be accomplished by a variety of means known to the art including calcium phosphate-DNA co-precipitation, DEAE-dextran-mediated transfection, polybrene-mediated transfection, electroporation, microinjection, liposome fusion, lipofection, protoplast fusion, retroviral infection, and biolistics.

The term “stable transfection” or “stably transfected” refers to the introduction and integration of foreign DNA into the genome of the transfected cell. The term “stable transfectant” refers to a cell that has stably integrated foreign DNA into the genomic DNA.

The term “transient transfection” or “transiently transfected” refers to the introduction of foreign DNA into a cell where the foreign DNA fails to integrate into the genome of the transfected cell. The foreign DNA persists in the nucleus of the transfected cell for several days. During this time the foreign DNA is subject to the regulatory controls that govern the expression of endogenous genes in the chromosomes. The term “transient transfectant” refers to cells that have taken up foreign DNA but have failed to integrate this DNA.

As used, the term “eukaryote” refers to organisms distinguishable from “prokaryotes.” It is intended that the term encompass all organisms with cells that exhibit the usual characteristics of eukaryotes, such as the presence of a true nucleus bounded by a nuclear membrane, within which lie the chromosomes, the presence of membrane-bound organelles, and other characteristics commonly observed in eukaryotic organisms. Thus, the term includes, but is not limited to such organisms as fungi, protozoa, and animals (e.g., humans).

As used herein, the term “in vitro” refers to an artificial environment and to processes or reactions that occur within an artificial environment. In vitro environments can consist of, but are not limited to, test tubes and cell culture. The term “in vivo” refers to the natural environment (e.g., an animal or a cell) and to processes or reaction that occur within a natural environment.

The terms “test compound” and “candidate compound” refer to any chemical entity, pharmaceutical, drug, and the like that is a candidate for use to treat or prevent a disease, illness, sickness, or disorder of bodily function (e.g., cancer). Test compounds comprise both known and potential therapeutic compounds. A test compound can be determined to be therapeutic by screening using the screening methods of the present invention.

As used herein, the term “sample” is used in its broadest sense. In one sense, it is meant to include a specimen or culture obtained from any source, as well as biological and environmental samples. Biological samples may be obtained from animals (including humans) and encompass fluids, solids, tissues, and gases. Biological samples include blood products, such as plasma, serum and the like. Environmental samples include environmental material such as surface matter, soil, water and industrial samples. Such examples are not however to be construed as limiting the sample types applicable to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Coumarin anticoagulant drugs are the definitive treatment world-wide for the long-term prevention of thromboembolic events. In 2003, a total of 21.2 million prescriptions were written for the oral anticoagulant warfarin in the United States alone. Unfortunately, warfarin poses considerable dose management problems due to a multitude of factors that can modify the anticoagulant effect of the drug: its narrow therapeutic range, discrete ethnic differences in dose requirements and wide inter-individual variability in dosing. These challenges may contribute to the general under-utilization of anticoagulant therapy, particularly in stroke prevention (Fang et al., Arch Intern Med 164, 55-60 (2004); Gage et al., Stroke 31, 822-7 (2000)). Structural gene mutations in cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9, the major catabolic enzyme for the more active (S)-enantiomer of warfarin, are a risk factor for adverse outcomes during therapy (Higashi et al., Jama 287, 1690-8 (2002)), and extremely rare mutations in VKORC1 underlie overt warfarin resistance (Rost et al., Nature 427, 537-41 (2004)). The association of a single VKORC1 polymorphism with Warfarin dosage has been described (D'Andrea, Blood, Sep. 9, 2004). However, prior to the present invention, much of the variance in warfarin dose requirement remained unexplained (Gage et al., Thromb Haemost 91, 87-94 (2004)).

Warfarin exerts its antithrombotic effects by inhibiting regeneration of an essential component of clotting factor synthesis—vitamin KH₂ (reduced vitamin K)—from vitamin K epoxide (Suttie, Adv Exp Med Biol 214, 3-16 (1987)). This enzyme activity is determined by the recently discovered vitamin K epoxide reductase gene, VKORC1 (Li et al., Nature 427, 541-4 (2004); Rost et al., supra).

Experiments conducted during the course of development of the present invention demonstrated a correlation between certain VKORC1 haplotypes and optimal warfarin dosage. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the present invention provides methods and compositions for determining a subject's optimal Warfarin dose, as well as for related drugs (e.g., drugs that involve the same biological pathway).

Further experiments conducted during the course of development of the present invention demonstrated a correlation between VKORC1 expression and VKORC1 haplotypes (See e.g., Example 2). The associations between (i) the A haplotype and reduced mRNA expression and (ii) the B haplotype and increased mRNA expression parallels the effect of these haplotypes on warfarin dose, as would be predicted by a simple, non-competitive model of enzyme inhibition by this anticoagulant (Fasco et al., Biochemistry 1983; 22:5655-60). The present invention is not limited to a particular mechanism. Indeed, an understanding of the mechanism is not necessary to practice the present invention. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that the level of VKORC1 mRNA is directed by each haplotype and determines the level of protein synthesis of the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex which, in turn, accounts for differences in warfarin maintenance dose in patients. The primary SNP candidates that explain this effect are those that designate the major haplotype split (sites 381, 3673, 6484, 6853, and 7566) and predict warfarin maintenance dose. These SNPs were mapped to homologous regions in rat, mouse, and dog species, to identify potentially conserved non-coding sequences that encompass these sites. Only two SNPs (6484 and 6583) from the informative group are conserved; these flank exon 2 but fall outside the canonical regions required for exon splicing. It is contemplated that these regions act as regulatory sequences that bind transcription factor binding sites.

The merits of genotyping prior to, or concomitant with, treatment involving drugs like warfarin, irinotecan and thiopurine—the effectiveness of which depend on genetic variants of CYP2C9 (and now VKORC1), UGT1A1, and TPMT—is an area of active debate between regulatory authorities and the clinical community (Lesko et al., Nat Rev Drug Discov 2004; 3:763-9). Recently published guidelines suggest initial warfarin dosing at 5-10 mg/day 19. However, experiments conducted during the course of development of the present invention suggest this strategy may expose low dose VKORC1 A/A patients to unnecessarily high doses of drug. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the present invention provides methods comprising analysis of VKORC1 expression and polymorphisms to aid in the determination of optimal Warfarin dosages.

I. Personalized Warfarin Dosing

In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of personalized Warfarin dosing comprising identifying a subject's VKORC1 haplotype or Clade type. As described below (See Experimental Section), experiments conducted during the course of development of the present invention identified a series of VKORC1 polymorphisms associated with optimal Warfarin dosages. Polymorphisms at seven sites (381, 3673, 5808, 6484, 6853, 7566, and 9041) of VKORC1 were identified. The polymorphisms were found to be associated with two low-dose (2.9 and 3.0 mg/d) haplotypes (H1 and H2) and two high-dose (6.0 and 5.5 mg/d) haplotypes (H7 and H9). Thus, the present invention provides compositions, methods, and kits for detecting such polymorphisms and haplotypes, directly or indirectly, by any method, for predicting response to Warfarin and related drugs, selecting drugs dosage, and conducting studies on drug metabolism. These polymorphisms may be detected along with other polymorphisms (e.g., CYP2C9) to enhance the information available to researchers and medical practitioners.

In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention comprise identifying a subject's haplotype and determining the subject's optimal dosage range. The methods of the present invention allow for safer and thus more widespread use of Warfarin and related drugs. Exemplary methods for determining VKORC1 polymorphisms are described below.

1. Direct Sequencing Assays

In some embodiments of the present invention, VKORC1 polymorphic sequences are detected using a direct sequencing technique. In these assays, DNA samples are first isolated from a subject using any suitable method. In some embodiments, the region of interest is cloned into a suitable vector and amplified by growth in a host cell (e.g., a bacteria). In other embodiments, DNA in the region of interest is amplified using PCR.

Following amplification, DNA in the region of interest (e.g., the region containing the SNP or mutation of interest) is sequenced using any suitable method, including but not limited to manual sequencing using radioactive marker nucleotides, and automated sequencing. The results of the sequencing are displayed using any suitable method. The sequence is examined and the presence or absence of a given SNP or mutation is determined.

2. PCR Assay

In some embodiments of the present invention, variant sequences are detected using a PCR-based assay. In some embodiments, the PCR assay comprises the use of oligonucleotide primers that hybridize only to the variant or wild type allele (e.g., to the region of polymorphism or mutation). Both sets of primers are used to amplify a sample of DNA. If only the mutant primers result in a PCR product, then the patient has the mutant allele. If only the wild-type primers result in a PCR product, then the patient has the wild type allele.

3. Hybridization Assays

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, variant sequences are detected using a hybridization assay. In a hybridization assay, the presence of absence of a given SNP or mutation is determined based on the ability of the DNA from the sample to hybridize to a complementary DNA molecule (e.g., a oligonucleotide probe). A variety of hybridization assays using a variety of technologies for hybridization and detection are available. A description of a selection of assays is provided below.

a. Direct Detection of Hybridization

In some embodiments, hybridization of a probe to the sequence of interest (e.g., a SNP or mutation) is detected directly by visualizing a bound probe (e.g., a Northern or Southern assay; See e.g., Ausabel et al. (eds.), Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, John Wiley & Sons, NY [1991]). In a these assays, genomic DNA (Southern) or RNA (Northern) is isolated from a subject. The DNA or RNA is then cleaved with a series of restriction enzymes that cleave infrequently in the genome and not near any of the markers being assayed. The DNA or RNA is then separated (e.g., on an agarose gel) and transferred to a membrane. A labeled (e.g., by incorporating a radionucleotide) probe or probes specific for the SNP or mutation being detected is allowed to contact the membrane under a condition or low, medium, or high stringency conditions. Unbound probe is removed and the presence of binding is detected by visualizing the labeled probe.

b. Detection of Hybridization Using “DNA Chip” Assays

In some embodiments of the present invention, variant sequences are detected using a DNA chip hybridization assay. In this assay, a series of oligonucleotide probes are affixed to a solid support. The oligonucleotide probes are designed to be unique to a given SNP or mutation. The DNA sample of interest is contacted with the DNA “chip” and hybridization is detected.

In some embodiments, the DNA chip assay is a GeneChip (Affymetrix, Santa Clara, Calif.; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,045,996; 5,925,525; and 5,858,659; each of which is herein incorporated by reference) assay. The GeneChip technology uses miniaturized, high-density arrays of oligonucleotide probes affixed to a “chip.” Probe arrays are manufactured by Affymetrix's light-directed chemical synthesis process, which combines solid-phase chemical synthesis with photolithographic fabrication techniques employed in the semiconductor industry. Using a series of photolithographic masks to define chip exposure sites, followed by specific chemical synthesis steps, the process constructs high-density arrays of oligonucleotides, with each probe in a predefined position in the array. Multiple probe arrays are synthesized simultaneously on a large glass wafer. The wafers are then diced, and individual probe arrays are packaged in injection-molded plastic cartridges, which protect them from the environment and serve as chambers for hybridization.

The nucleic acid to be analyzed is isolated, amplified by PCR, and labeled with a fluorescent reporter group. The labeled DNA is then incubated with the array using a fluidics station. The array is then inserted into the scanner, where patterns of hybridization are detected. The hybridization data are collected as light emitted from the fluorescent reporter groups already incorporated into the target, which is bound to the probe array. Probes that perfectly match the target generally produce stronger signals than those that have mismatches. Since the sequence and position of each probe on the array are known, by complementarity, the identity of the target nucleic acid applied to the probe array can be determined.

In other embodiments, a DNA microchip containing electronically captured probes (Nanogen, San Diego, Calif.) is utilized (See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,017,696; 6,068,818; and 6,051,380; each of which are herein incorporated by reference). Through the use of microelectronics, Nanogen's technology enables the active movement and concentration of charged molecules to and from designated test sites on its semiconductor microchip. DNA capture probes unique to a given SNP or mutation are electronically placed at, or “addressed” to, specific sites on the microchip. Since DNA has a strong negative charge, it can be electronically moved to an area of positive charge.

First, a test site or a row of test sites on the microchip is electronically activated with a positive charge. Next, a solution containing the DNA probes is introduced onto the microchip. The negatively charged probes rapidly move to the positively charged sites, where they concentrate and are chemically bound to a site on the microchip. The microchip is then washed and another solution of distinct DNA probes is added until the array of specifically bound DNA probes is complete.

A test sample is then analyzed for the presence of target DNA molecules by determining which of the DNA capture probes hybridize, with complementary DNA in the test sample (e.g., a PCR amplified gene of interest). An electronic charge is also used to move and concentrate target molecules to one or more test sites on the microchip. The electronic concentration of sample DNA at each test site promotes rapid hybridization of sample DNA with complementary capture probes (hybridization may occur in minutes). To remove any unbound or nonspecifically bound DNA from each site, the polarity or charge of the site is reversed to negative, thereby forcing any unbound or nonspecifically bound DNA back into solution away from the capture probes. A laser-based fluorescence scanner is used to detect binding,

In still further embodiments, an array technology based upon the segregation of fluids on a flat surface (chip) by differences in surface tension (ProtoGene, Palo Alto, Calif.) is utilized (See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,001,311; 5,985,551; and 5,474,796; each of which is herein incorporated by reference). Protogene's technology is based on the fact that fluids can be segregated on a flat surface by differences in surface tension that have been imparted by chemical coatings. Once so segregated, oligonucleotide probes are synthesized directly on the chip by ink-jet printing of reagents. The array with its reaction sites defined by surface tension is mounted on a X/Y translation stage under a set of four piezoelectric nozzles, one for each of the four standard DNA bases. The translation stage moves along each of the rows of the array and the appropriate reagent is delivered to each of the reaction site. For example, the A amidite is delivered only to the sites where amidite A is to be coupled during that synthesis step and so on. Common reagents and washes are delivered by flooding the entire surface and then removing them by spinning.

DNA probes unique for the SNP or mutation of interest are affixed to the chip using Protogene's technology. The chip is then contacted with the PCR-amplified genes of interest. Following hybridization, unbound DNA is removed and hybridization is detected using any suitable method (e.g., by fluorescence de-quenching of an incorporated fluorescent group).

In yet other embodiments, a “bead array” is used for the detection of polymorphisms (Illumina, San Diego, Calif.; See e.g., PCT Publications WO 99/67641 and WO 00/39587, each of which is herein incorporated by reference). Illumina uses a BEAD ARRAY technology that combines fiber optic bundles and beads that self-assemble into an array. Each fiber optic bundle contains thousands to millions of individual fibers depending on the diameter of the bundle. The beads are coated with an oligonucleotide specific for the detection of a given SNP or mutation. Batches of beads are combined to form a pool specific to the array. To perform an assay, the BEAD ARRAY is contacted with a prepared subject sample (e.g., DNA). Hybridization is detected using any suitable method.

c. Enzymatic Detection of Hybridization

In some embodiments, hybridization of a bound probe is detected using a TaqMan assay (PE Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,962,233 and 5,538,848, each of which is herein incorporated by reference). The assay is performed during a PCR reaction. The TaqMan assay exploits the 5′-3′ exonuclease activity of DNA polymerases such as AMPLITAQ DNA polymerase. A probe, specific for a given allele or mutation, is included in the PCR reaction. The probe consists of an oligonucleotide with a 5′-reporter dye (e.g., a fluorescent dye) and a 3′-quencher dye. During PCR, if the probe is bound to its target, the 5′-3′ nucleolytic activity of the AMPLITAQ polymerase cleaves the probe between the reporter and the quencher dye. The separation of the reporter dye from the quencher dye results in an increase of fluorescence. The signal accumulates with each cycle of PCR and can be monitored with a fluorimeter.

In still further embodiments, polymorphisms are detected using the SNP-IT primer extension assay (Orchid Biosciences, Princeton, N.J.; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,952,174 and 5,919,626, each of which is herein incorporated by reference). In this assay, SNPs are identified by using a specially synthesized DNA primer and a DNA polymerase to selectively extend the DNA chain by one base at the suspected SNP location. DNA in the region of interest is amplified and denatured. Polymerase reactions are then performed using miniaturized systems called microfluidics. Detection is accomplished by adding a label to the nucleotide suspected of being at the SNP or mutation location. Incorporation of the label into the DNA can be detected by any suitable method (e.g., if the nucleotide contains a biotin label, detection is via a fluorescently labelled antibody specific for biotin). Numerous other assays are known in the art.

4. Other Detection Assays

Additional detection assays that are suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, enzyme mismatch cleavage methods (e.g., Variagenics, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,110,684, 5,958,692, 5,851,770, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); polymerase chain reaction; branched hybridization methods (e.g., Chiron, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,849,481, 5,710,264, 5,124,246, and 5,624,802, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); rolling circle replication (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,210,884 and 6,183,960, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); NASBA (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,409,818, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety); molecular beacon technology (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,150,097, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety); E-sensor technology (Motorola, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,248,229, 6,221,583, 6,013,170, and 6,063,573, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); INVADER assay, Third Wave Technologies; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,846,717, 6,090,543; 6,001,567; 5,985,557; and 5,994,069; each of which is herein incorporated by reference; cycling probe technology (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,403,711, 5,011,769, and 5,660,988, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); Dade Behring signal amplification methods (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,121,001, 6,110,677, 5,914,230, 5,882,867, and 5,792,614, herein incorporated by reference in their entireties); ligase chain reaction (Barnay Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci USA 88, 189-93 (1991)); and sandwich hybridization methods (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,288,609, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety).

5. Mass Spectroscopy Assay

In some embodiments, a MassARRAY system (Sequenom, San Diego, Calif.) is used to detect variant sequences (See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,043,031; 5,777,324; and 5,605,798; each of which is herein incorporated by reference). DNA is isolated from blood samples using standard procedures. Next, specific DNA regions containing the mutation or SNP of interest, about 200 base pairs in length, are amplified by PCR. The amplified fragments are then attached by one strand to a solid surface and the non-immobilized strands are removed by standard denaturation and washing. The remaining immobilized single strand then serves as a template for automated enzymatic reactions that produce genotype specific diagnostic products.

Very small quantities of the enzymatic products, typically five to ten nanoliters, are then transferred to a SpectroCHIP array for subsequent automated analysis with the SpectroREADER mass spectrometer. Each spot is preloaded with light absorbing crystals that form a matrix with the dispensed diagnostic product. The MassARRAY system uses MALDI-TOF (Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization—Time of Flight) mass spectrometry. In a process known as desorption, the matrix is hit with a pulse from a laser beam. Energy from the laser beam is transferred to the matrix and it is vaporized resulting in a small amount of the diagnostic product being expelled into a flight tube. As the diagnostic product is charged when an electrical field pulse is subsequently applied to the tube they are launched down the flight tube towards a detector. The time between application of the electrical field pulse and collision of the diagnostic product with the detector is referred to as the time of flight. This is a very precise measure of the product's molecular weight, as a molecule's mass correlates directly with time of flight with smaller molecules flying faster than larger molecules. The entire assay is completed in less than one thousandth of a second, enabling samples to be analyzed in a total of 3-5 second including repetitive data collection. The SpectroTYPER software then calculates, records, compares and reports the genotypes at the rate of three seconds per sample.

6. Detection of VKORC1 Expression

In other embodiments, the level of VKORC1 gene expression is used to determine an individual's Warfarin dose. Experiments conducted during the course of development of the present invention (See e.g., Example 2) demonstrated a correlation between VKORC1 haplotype and level of VKORC1 expression. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the level of VKORC1 expression is correlated with optimal Warfarin dosage.

1. Detection of RNA

In some preferred embodiments, detection of VKORC1 expression is detected by measuring the expression of corresponding mRNA in a blood sample. mRNA expression may be measured by any suitable method, including but not limited to, those disclosed below.

In some embodiments, RNA is detection by Northern blot analysis. Northern blot analysis involves the separation of RNA and hybridization of a complementary labeled probe.

In other embodiments, RNA expression is detected by enzymatic cleavage of specific structures (INVADER assay, Third Wave Technologies; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,846,717, 6,090,543; 6,001,567; 5,985,557; and 5,994,069; each of which is herein incorporated by reference). The INVADER assay detects specific nucleic acid (e.g., RNA) sequences by using structure-specific enzymes to cleave a complex formed by the hybridization of overlapping oligonucleotide probes.

In still further embodiments, RNA (or corresponding cDNA) is detected by hybridization to an oligonucleotide probe). A variety of hybridization assays using a variety of technologies for hybridization and detection are available. For example, in some embodiments, TaqMan assay (PE Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.; See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,962,233 and 5,538,848, each of which is herein incorporated by reference) is utilized. The assay is performed during a PCR reaction. The TaqMan assay exploits the 5′-3′ exonuclease activity of the AMPLITAQ GOLD DNA polymerase. A probe consisting of an oligonucleotide with a 5′-reporter dye (e.g., a fluorescent dye) and a 3′-quencher dye is included in the PCR reaction. During PCR, if the probe is bound to its target, the 5′-3′ nucleolytic activity of the AMPLITAQ GOLD polymerase cleaves the probe between the reporter and the quencher dye. The separation of the reporter dye from the quencher dye results in an increase of fluorescence. The signal accumulates with each cycle of PCR and can be monitored with a fluorimeter.

In yet other embodiments, reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) is used to detect the expression of RNA. In RT-PCR, RNA is enzymatically converted to complementary DNA or “cDNA” using a reverse transcriptase enzyme. The cDNA is then used as a template for a PCR reaction. PCR products can be detected by any suitable method, including but not limited to, gel electrophoresis and staining with a DNA specific stain or hybridization to a labeled probe. In some embodiments, the quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR with standardized mixtures of competitive templates method described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,639,606, 5,643,765, and 5,876,978 (each of which is herein incorporated by reference) is utilized.

2. Detection of Protein

In other embodiments, gene expression of VKORC1 is detected by measuring the expression of the corresponding protein or polypeptide. Protein expression may be detected by any suitable method. In some embodiments, proteins are detected by immunohistochemistry methods known in the art. In other embodiments, proteins are detected by their binding to an antibody raised against the protein. The generation of antibodies is described below.

Antibody binding is detected by techniques known in the art (e.g., radioimmunoassay, ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay), “sandwich” immunoassays, immunoradiometric assays, gel diffusion precipitation reactions, immunodiffusion assays, in situ immunoassays (e.g., using colloidal gold, enzyme or radioisotope labels, for example), Western blots, precipitation reactions, agglutination assays (e.g., gel agglutination assays, hemagglutination assays, etc.), complement fixation assays, immunofluorescence assays, protein A assays, and immunoelectrophoresis assays, etc.

In one embodiment, antibody binding is detected by detecting a label on the primary antibody. In another embodiment, the primary antibody is detected by detecting binding of a secondary antibody or reagent to the primary antibody. In a further embodiment, the secondary antibody is labeled. Many methods are known in the art for detecting binding in an immunoassay and are within the scope of the present invention.

In some embodiments, an automated detection assay is utilized. Methods for the automation of immunoassays include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,885,530, 4,981,785, 6,159,750, and 5,358,691, each of which is herein incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, the analysis and presentation of results is also automated. For example, in some embodiments, software that generates a prognosis based on the presence or absence of a series of proteins corresponding to cancer markers is utilized.

In other embodiments, the immunoassay described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,599,677 and 5,672,480; each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

II. Kits

In some embodiments, the present invention provides kits for the detection of VKORC1 polymorphisms. In some embodiments, the kits contain reagents specific for the detection of mRNA or cDNA (e.g., oligonucleotide probes or primers). In preferred embodiments, the kits contain all of the components necessary to perform a detection assay, including all controls, directions for performing assays, and any necessary software for analysis and presentation of results. In some embodiments, individual probes and reagents for detection of VKORC1 polymorphisms are provided as analyte specific reagents. In other embodiments, the kits are provided as in vitro diagnostics.

In other embodiments, the present invention provides kits for determining the level of VKORC1 mRNA or protein expression in a subject. For example, in some embodiments, the kits comprise reagents for performing mRNA or protein detection assays (e.g., those described above).

III. Drug Screening

In some embodiments, the present invention provides drug screening assays (e.g., to screen for anticoagulant drugs). In some embodiments, the screening methods of the present invention utilize polymorphic forms of VKORC1. For example, in some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of screening for compounds that alter (e.g., decrease) the activity or level of expression of one or more polymorphic forms of VKORC1. In other embodiments, the drug screening methods described below are used to screen compounds known to alter blood clotting with different polymorphic forms of VKORC1.

In one screening method, candidate compounds are evaluated for their ability to alter (e.g., increase or decrease) VKORC1 expression by contacting a compound with a cell expressing VKORC1 and then assaying for the effect of the candidate compounds on expression. In some embodiments, the effect of candidate compounds on expression of VKORC1 is assayed for by detecting the level of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by the cell. mRNA expression can be detected by any suitable method, including but not limited to, those disclosed herein.

In other embodiments, the effect of candidate compounds is assayed by measuring the level of VKORC1 polypeptide. The level of polypeptide expressed can be measured using any suitable method, including but not limited to, those disclosed herein or by monitoring a phenotype (e.g., clotting speed).

In some embodiments, in vitro drug screens are performed using purified wild type or dominant active VKORC1 and binding partners or signaling partners thereof. Compounds are screened for their ability to interact with VKORC1 proteins and inhibit or enhance VKORC1 function or the interaction of VKORC1 with binding partners (e.g., cadherin).

In still further embodiments, cells or transgenic animals having altered (e.g., polymorphic) VKORC1 genes are utilized in drug screening applications. For example, in some embodiments, compounds are screened for their ability to alter blood clotting in VKORC1 mice with a particular polymorphic form of VKORC1.

In yet other embodiments, subjects (e.g., human subject) are enrolled in clinical trials to test dosages of Warfarin or other related drugs (e.g., new drugs). In preferred embodiments, subjects having polymorphic VKORC1 are included in clinical trials to test clotting drugs.

The test compounds of the present invention can be obtained using any of the numerous approaches in combinatorial library methods known in the art, including biological libraries; peptoid libraries (libraries of molecules having the functionalities of peptides, but with a novel, non-peptide backbone, which are resistant to enzymatic degradation but which nevertheless remain bioactive; see, e.g., Zuckennann et al., J. Med. Chem. 37: 2678-85 [1994]); spatially addressable parallel solid phase or solution phase libraries; synthetic library methods requiring deconvolution; the ‘one-bead one-compound’ library method; and synthetic library methods using affinity chromatography selection. The biological library and peptoid library approaches are preferred for use with peptide libraries, while the other four approaches are applicable to peptide, non-peptide oligomer or small molecule libraries of compounds (Lam (1997) Anticancer Drug Des. 12:145).

Examples of methods for the synthesis of molecular libraries can be found in the art, for example in: DeWitt et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 90:6909 [1993]; Erb et al., Proc. Nad. Acad. Sci. USA 91:11422 [1994]; Zuckermann et al., J. Med. Chem. 37:2678 [1994]; Cho et al., Science 261:1303 [1993]; Carrell et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 33.2059 [1994]; Carell et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 33:2061 [1994]; and Gallop et al., J. Med. Chem. 37:1233 [1994].

Libraries of compounds may be presented in solution (e.g., Houghten, Biotechniques 13:412-421 [1992]), or on beads (Lam, Nature 354:82-84 [1991]), chips (Fodor, Nature 364:555-556 [1993]), bacteria or spores (U.S. Pat. No. 5,223,409; herein incorporated by reference), plasmids (Cull et al., Proc. Nad. Acad. Sci. USA 89:18651869 [1992]) or on phage (Scott and Smith, Science 249:386-390 [1990]; Devlin Science 249:404-406 [1990]; Cwirla et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 87:6378-6382 [1990]; Felici, J. Mol. Biol. 222:301 [1991]).

IV. Transgenic Animals Expressing VKORC1 Polymorphic Sequences

The present invention contemplates the generation of transgenic animals comprising an exogenous VKORC1 gene or mutants and variants thereof (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms). In preferred embodiments, the transgenic animal displays an altered phenotype (e.g., response to Warfarin or other anticoagulant drugs) as compared to wild-type animals. Methods for analyzing the presence or absence of such phenotypes include but are not limited to, those disclosed herein.

The transgenic animals or natural variants having equivalent genotypes of the present invention find use in drug (e.g., anticoagulant) screens. In some embodiments, test compounds (e.g., a drug that is suspected of being useful as an anticoagulant therapy) and control compounds (e.g., a placebo) are administered to the transgenic animals and the control animals and the effects evaluated.

The transgenic animals can be generated via a variety of methods. In some embodiments, embryonal cells at various developmental stages are used to introduce transgenes for the production of transgenic animals. Different methods are used depending on the stage of development of the embryonal cell. The zygote is the best target for micro-injection. In the mouse, the male pronucleus reaches the size of approximately 20 micrometers in diameter that allows reproducible injection of 1-2 picoliters (pl) of DNA solution. The use of zygotes as a target for gene transfer has a major advantage in that in most cases the injected DNA will be incorporated into the host genome before the first cleavage (Brinster et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:4438-4442 [1985]). As a consequence, all cells of the transgenic non-human animal will carry the incorporated transgene. This will in general also be reflected in the efficient transmission of the transgene to offspring of the founder since 50% of the germ cells will harbor the transgene. U.S. Pat. No. 4,873,191 describes a method for the micro-injection of zygotes; the disclosure of this patent is incorporated herein in its entirety.

In other embodiments, retroviral infection is used to introduce transgenes into a non-human animal. In some embodiments, the retroviral vector is utilized to transfect oocytes by injecting the retroviral vector into the perivitelline space of the oocyte (U.S. Pat. No. 6,080,912, incorporated herein by reference). In other embodiments, the developing non-human embryo can be cultured in vitro to the blastocyst stage. During this time, the blastomeres can be targets for retroviral infection (Janenich, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 73:1260 [1976]). Efficient infection of the blastomeres is obtained by enzymatic treatment to remove the zona pellucida (Hogan et al., in Manipulating the Mouse Embryo, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. [1986]). The viral vector system used to introduce the transgene is typically a replication-defective retrovirus carrying the transgene (Jahner et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:6927 [1985]). Transfection is easily and efficiently obtained by culturing the blastomeres on a monolayer of virus-producing cells (Stewart, et al., EMBO J., 6:383 [1987]). Alternatively, infection can be performed at a later stage. Virus or virus-producing cells can be injected into the blastocoele (Jahner et al., Nature 298:623 [1982]). Most of the founders will be mosaic for the transgene since incorporation occurs only in a subset of cells that form the transgenic animal. Further, the founder may contain various retroviral insertions of the transgene at different positions in the genome that generally will segregate in the offspring. In addition, it is also possible to introduce transgenes into the germline, albeit with low efficiency, by intrauterine retroviral infection of the midgestation embryo (Jahner et al., supra [1982]). Additional means of using retroviruses or retroviral vectors to create transgenic animals known to the art involve the micro-injection of retroviral particles or mitomycin C-treated cells producing retrovirus into the perivitelline space of fertilized eggs or early embryos (PCT International Application WO 90/08832 [1990], and Haskell and Bowen, Mol. Reprod. Dev., 40:386 [1995]).

In other embodiments, the transgene is introduced into embryonic stem cells and the transfected stem cells are utilized to form an embryo. ES cells are obtained by culturing pre-implantation embryos in vitro under appropriate conditions (Evans et al., Nature 292:154 [1981]; Bradley et al., Nature 309:255 [1984]; Gossler et al., Proc. Acad. Sci. USA 83:9065 [1986]; and Robertson et al., Nature 322:445 [1986]). Transgenes can be efficiently introduced into the ES cells by DNA transfection by a variety of methods known to the art including calcium phosphate co-precipitation, protoplast or spheroplast fusion, lipofection and DEAE-dextran-mediated transfection. Transgenes may also be introduced into ES cells by retrovirus-mediated transduction or by micro-injection. Such transfected ES cells can thereafter colonize an embryo following their introduction into the blastocoel of a blastocyst-stage embryo and contribute to the germ line of the resulting chimeric animal (for review, See, Jaenisch, Science 240:1468 [1988]). Prior to the introduction of transfected ES cells into the blastocoel, the transfected ES cells may be subjected to various selection protocols to enrich for ES cells which have integrated the transgene assuming that the transgene provides a means for such selection. Alternatively, the polymerase chain reaction may be used to screen for ES cells that have integrated the transgene. This technique obviates the need for growth of the transfected ES cells under appropriate selective conditions prior to transfer into the blastocoel.

In still other embodiments, homologous recombination is utilized knock-out gene function or create deletion mutants (e.g., truncation mutants). Methods for homologous recombination are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,614,396, incorporated herein by reference.

EXPERIMENTAL

The following example is provided in order to demonstrate and further illustrate certain preferred embodiments and aspects of the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting the scope thereof.

Example 1

VKORC1 Polymorphisms

This Example describes the association between VKORC1 polymorphisms and optimal Warfarin dosages.

A. Methods

Clinical and Control Subjects

The initial European American clinical patients used in this study have been previously described (Higashi et al., Jama 287, 1690-8 (2002)) as have most of the European American patients in the replication study (Gage et al., Thromb Haemost 91, 87-94 (2004)). All control DNA population samples were purchased from the human variation collections and the CEPH pedigree samples at the Coriell Cell Repository. The Asian American samples consisted of 96 individuals from the HD 100CHI panel (Han People of Los Angeles), 10 Southeast Asians (HD13), 7 Chinese (HD32), and 7 Japanese (from the HD07 panel). The 96 European American samples were selected from the HD100CAU panel with the remaining 23 individuals selected from the parental generation of the CEPH families (for more information on these samples see Table 4). The 96 African American samples were selected from the HD100AA panel.

Sequence Analysis and Genotyping

All clinical samples from the primary European American cohort were resequenced for SNP discovery using PCR amplification of ˜1 kb fragments covering the entire genomic region of VKORC1 and direct sequencing of the PCR amplicons using standard ABI Big-Dye Terminator sequencing chemistry and run on an ABI 3730XL DNA analyzer. SNPs were identified using the program Polyphred (v. 4.2), along with quality control and review of all SNPs and genotypes by a human analyst. The ten SNPs identified were at position 381(C/T), 861(A/C), 2653(G/C), 3673(A/G), 5808(T/G), 6009(C/T), 6484(C/T), 6853(C/G), 7566(C/T), and 9041(A/G) in the VKORC1 reference sequence (GenBank Accession AY587020; SEQ ID NO: 1). A single heterozygous non-synonymous SNP was identified (genomic position 5432 (G/T)-Ala41Ser) in a European American clinical patient. This patient had the highest overall warfarin maintenance dose (15.5 mg/d) and was excluded from all analyses. No other previously reported nonsynonymous SNPs were identified (Rost et al., Nature 427, 537-41 (2004)). All other control population samples were resequenced using the same methods, but genotyped using only the amplicons containing the 10 common SNPs identified in the European American clinical population.

For the replication study in the secondary European American cohort, four informative SNPs (861, 5808, 6853, and 9041) were used to differentiate between haplotype H1, H2, H7, H8 and H9, based on the genealogical tree in FIG. 1. For each SNP site, PCR primers were designed using Primer Express version 1.5 (ABI, Foster City, Calif.). Pyrosequencing primers were designed using the Pyrosequencing SNP Primer Design Version 1.01 software. Unique localization of the PCR primers was verified using NCBI Blast (available at the Internet site of NCBI). PCR was carried out using Amplitaq Gold PCR master mix (ABI, Foster City, Calif.), 5 pmole of each primer (IDT, Coralville, Iowa), and 1 ng DNA. Pyrosequencing was carried out as previously described (Rose et al., Methods Mol Med 85, 225-37 (2003) using the following primers (5′-3′) for each SNP: 861 (A/C), forward=TCTTGGAGTGAGGAAGGCAAT (SEQ ID NO:2), reverse=Biotin-GACAGGTCTGGACAACGTGG (SEQ ID NO:3), internal=CTCAGGTGATCCA (SEQ ID NO:4); 5808 (G/T), forward=Biotin-GGATGCCAGATGATTATTCTGGAGT (SEQ ID NO:5), reverse=TCATTATGCTAACGCCTGGCC (SEQ ID NO:6), internal=CAACACCCCCCTTC (SEQ ID NO:7); 6853 (G/C), forward=CTTGGTGATCCACACAGCTGA (SEQ ID NO:8), reverse=Biotin-AAAAGACTCCTGTTAGTTACCTCCCC (SEQ ID NO:9), internal=AGCTAGCTGCTCATCAC (SEQ ID NO:10); 9041 (A/G), forward=TACCCCCTCCTCCTGCCATA (SEQ ID NO:11), reverse=Biotin-CCAGCAGGCCCTCCACTC (SEQ ID NO:12), internal=TCCTCCTGCCATACC (SEQ ID NO:13). Samples of each genotype were randomly selected and repeated to confirm the genotype assignment.

Statistical Methods

Genealogic trees were constructed using the program MEGA and based on the number of differences between haplotypes and the UPGMA clustering method. Haplotypes for each individual sample were estimated using the program PHASE, version 2.0 (Stephens and Donnelly, Am J Hum Genet 73, 1162-9 (2003)), and independent runs were performed for each population studied.

Using the most likely pair of haplotypes estimated for each patient, the association between number of copies of each VKORC1 haplotype (coded 0, 1, 2) and maintenance warfarin dose was assessed on an additive scale. Multiple linear regression was performed using log-transformed maintenance dose, adjusting for the covariates age, sex, race, amiodarone, losartan, and CYP2C9 genotype. Adjusted warfarin doses (and 95% confidence intervals) associated with each additional haplotype copy were estimated by exponentiation of the mean fitted values and standard errors of the linear prediction. In separate analyses, using a generalized linear model score test method (Lake et al., Hum Hered 55, 56-65 (2003)) that additionally takes into account the uncertainty of haplotypes assignments, similar estimates were obtained for mean warfarin dose, and the confidence values were slightly wider.

The Kruskal-Wallis test, a distribution-free ANOVA, was used to assess differences in maintenance dose among the A/A, A/B and B/B groups. This was done separately for three subsets of the data: (1) for subjects with the *2 or *3 variant, (2) wild type and (3)*2 or *3 and wild type combined. Subjects with a non-A or B haplotype were not used in the analysis. Following the overall chi-square test for differences among the three groups, pairwise comparisons of groups were carried out using the asymptotic normality of the total ranks within each group. The Bonferroni correction for each of the three individual comparisons (A/A vs A/B, A/B vs B/B, and A/A vs B/B) was made to control the overall type I error rate.

Differences between population specific haplotype distributions were done using a χ² test.

B. Results

In order to investigate the link between common, non-coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VKORC1 and warfarin dosing, complete gene resequencing of the VKORC1 gene locus (11.2 kilobases) in a cohort of 185 European American patients receiving long-term warfarin therapy was carried out. All patients had been previously genotyped for known functional CYP2C9 mutations (*2 and *3) that are associated with lower warfarin dose requirements (Higashi et al., Jama 287, 1690-8 (2002); Aithal et al., Lancet 353, 717-9 (1999)). In VKORC1, all clinical samples were resequenced over 5 kilobases in the upstream promoter region, 4.2 kilobases of intragenic (intron and exon) sequence, and 2 kilobases of the 3′ downstream region. Ten non-coding SNPs with a minor allele frequency greater than 5% were identified in the European American clinical patients. These SNPs were used to estimate VKORC1 haplotypes that were assigned to each patient. From these 185 patients, five common haplotypes (>5%) were identified—H1, H2, H7, H8, H9 (Table 1).

When each SNP was tested individually, seven sites (381, 3673, 5808, 6484, 6853, 7566, and 9041) were highly significant (p<0.001) and three sites were marginally significant (861, 2653, and 6009, p=0.01, 0.02, and 0.02, respectively) when regressed against daily warfarin maintenance dose. Of the seven highly significant sites, five (381, 3673, 6484, 6853, 7566) are in strong linkage disequilibrium (r²=0.9) and two independent sites (5808 and 9041) are not correlated with any other SNP in this region. Analysis of SNP-SNP interactions also showed significant effects between multiple site combinations, therefore, the association of individual haplotypes with warfarin doses was also quantified. A multiple linear regression analysis using inferred haplotypes for each patient was used to determine the association of haplotype on warfarin dose, while adjusting for genetic and other clinically important covariates (e.g. age, CYP2C9-*2 or *3, etc; see Table 1 and Table 4). Four of the five common haplotypes (frequency>5%) were found to be significantly associated with warfarin dose (p<=0.05) (Table 1). From this analysis, two low-dose (2.9 and 3.0 mg/d) haplotypes (H1 and H2) and two high-dose (6.0 and 5.5 mg/d) haplotypes (H7 and H9) were identified.

A genealogical tree was constructed from the five common haplotypes to identify potential hierarchical haplotype groupings (FIG. 1—upper panel). Two distinct haplotype clades, which were completely segregating at five of the ten VKORC1 SNPs, were identified and designated clade A (H1 and H2) and clade B (H7, H8, and H9). Using this designation, all patients were grouped based on their CYP2C9 genotype and assigned a VKORC1 clade diplotype (i.e. combination of two clades) of A/A, A/B, or B/B. FIG. 1—lower panel). The overall mean (5.1±0.2 mg/d) and range of warfarin maintenance doses were typical of other studies of clinical patients (Aithal et al., supra). Warfarin maintenance dose differed significantly between all three clade diplotype groupings (A/A, A/B, B/B, p<0.001) in the combined patient set (i.e. FIG. 1—All patients), and for the CYP2C9 wild-type (WT) patients—there was an additive effect over the entire warfarin dose range. Overall, the proportion of warfarin dose variance explained by VKORC1 clades A and B was 25%, and was similar to values obtained when considering all VKORC1 SNP sites with interactions. Patients who were carriers of CYP2C9 *2 or *3 mutations showed a similar effect of VKORC1 lade diplotype on warfarin dose (p<0.001 between diplotype A/A and A/B). There was an overall trend towards lower warfarin dose associated with CYP2C9 variant genotype (FIG. 1, lower panel), consistent with the known blunted metabolism of warfarin in carriers of these allelic variants (Rettie et al., Epilepsy Res 35, 253-5 (1999)). The segregation of VKORC1 haplotypes into low and high dose associated clades, independently of CYP2C9*2 and *3, suggests that VKORC1 SNP genotyping have strong predictive power for determining the warfarin dose needed to achieve and maintain therapeutic anticoagulation in the clinical setting.

In order to validate these initial results, a replication study was performed in a larger, independent cohort of warfarin-treated European American patients (n=368). These patients were genotyped using four informative SNPs (861, 5808, 6853, 9041—FIG. 1—upper panel—bold numbers) that resolve all five common haplotypes (H1, H2, H7, H8, and H9) present in the initial European American clinical cohort. Haplotypes were inferred, clade diplotypes assigned, and patients segregated based on their known CYP2C9 genotype. Overall, the results from this larger clinical population recapitulated the salient findings in the index population for all three patient subgroups. In this second cohort, the CYP2C9-WT patients (n=233) and all patients (n=357) showed a significant additive effect across the A/A (3.4±0.26 and 3.2±0.21 mg/d), A/B (4.9±0.17 and 4.4±0.13 mg/d) and B/B (6.7±0.29 and 6.1±0.23 mg/d) clade diplotypes (p<0.05 between A/A and A/B, A/B and B/B).

One variable used in estimating clinical warfarin dose is racial background of the patient (Blann et al., Br J Haematol 107, 207-9 (1999); Gan et al., Int J Hematol 78, 84-6 (2003)). Individuals of Asian-, European-, and African ancestry tend to require, on average, lower (˜3.0 mg/d), intermediate (˜5.0 mg/d) and higher (˜6.5 mg/d) dose, respectively (Yu et al., Qjm 89, 127-35 (1996); Chenhsu et al., Ann Pharmacother 34, 1395-401 (2000); Absher et al., Ann Pharmacother 36, 1512-7 (2002); Gage et al., Thromb Haemost 91, 87-94 (2004)). In order to investigate whether this variation in dose requirement may be due to population specific differences in the distribution of VKORC1 haplotypes, 335 unrelated control individuals, selected from these population ancestries (European, n=119, African, n=96, Asian, n=120) were resequenced and the genotype was determined at each of the 10 SNPs present in the European-descent clinical patients. Haplotype pairs for each individual were inferred, and the population haplotype frequencies determined along with the distribution of clade A and B haplotypes (Table 2). The distribution of common haplotypes (H1, H2, H7, H8, and H9) between the European American clinical and control populations was significantly different (p<0.001), primarily due to an increase in the high dose associated H7 haplotype in clinical patients. This may be due to selection bias in the clinical population resulting from preferential referral, to an academic medical center, from which the patients were recruited.

The five predictive haplotypes accounted for 99% and 96%, of the total haplotypes in the European American clinical and control populations; no significant difference was present based on the distribution of clades A (35% vs 37%) and B (64% vs 58%). The five common haplotypes within the European American population accounted for only 61% of total African American haplotypes. This more diverse distribution of haplotypes in the African American population is consistent with the higher genomic sequence diversity found in African-descent populations (Przeworski et al., Trends Genet 16, 296-302 (2000); Crawford et al., Am J Hum Genet 74, 610-22 (2004)). These population-specific haplotype differences may be due to demographic effects such geographic selective pressures, migration, or bottlenecks, and have been observed for other medically relevant genes (e.g. ADRB2, (Drysdale et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 97, 10483-8 (2000)). The African and Asian American populations showed significant differences in clade A and B frequencies (p<0.001) compared to the European American control population. The frequency of clade A haplotypes was higher among the Asian American population (89%) and lower in the African American population (14%) compared to the European American control population (37%). Because clade A haplotypes predict the low warfarin dose phenotype (Table 1), ethnic differences in VKORC1 haplotype frequency parallel the clinical experience of population differences in warfarin maintenance dose requirements. Thus, this example describes population specific differences in haplotype distribution that are a major contributor to the variation in warfarin maintenance dose requirements between racial groups.

The molecular mechanism(s) by which these haplotypes, or the individual SNP alleles that comprise them, determine warfarin dose remain undefined. Two of these SNPs (381 and 3673) are present in the 5′ upstream promoter region, two in the first intron (5808 and 6484) and one (9041) in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR). None of the significantly associated SNPs are present in highly conserved non-coding sequence present in mouse or rat. The present invention is not limited to a particular mechanism. Indeed, an understanding of the mechanism is not necessary to practice the present invention. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that SNPs in the 3′ UTR may affect mRNA folding and stability (Durrin, L. K., Haile, R. W., Ingles, S. A. & Coetzee, G. A. Vitamin D receptor 3′-untranslated region polymorphisms: lack of effect on mRNA stability. Biochim Biophys Acta 1453, 311-20 (1999); Carter, A. M., Sachchithananthan, M., Stasinopoulos, S., Maurer, F. & Medcalf, R. L. Prothrombin G20210A is a bifunctional gene polymorphism. Thromb Haemost 87, 846-53 (2002)), which could alter VKORC1 expression and possibly warfarin response. The present invention is not limited to a particular mechanism. Indeed, an understanding of the mechanism is not necessary to practice the present invention. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that the strong association of individual haplotypes with warfarin dose also suggests that a functional interaction between SNP alleles carried on the same haplotype may be contributing to the observed results.

In summary, this Example describes VKORC1 noncoding SNPs and haplotypes that are strongly associated with warfarin dose. These haplotypes group into higher order clades that segregate patients into low, intermediate and high warfarin maintenance doses. The VKORC1 gene-warfarin dose association is independent of CYP2C9 genotype, and explains 23%-25% of the variability in the warfarin dose. Genotyping for these VKORC1 SNPs and haplotypes provides more accurate initial dosing and reduces the amount of time to stable anticoagulation, thereby improving the safety, effectiveness, and hospitalization costs associated with warfarin therapy. TABLE 1 Average warfarin maintenance dose requirement based on VKORC1 haplotype. Average maintenance dose Haplotype for homozygous Haplotype Sequence Frequency patients (mg/d)* H1 CCGATCTCTG 0.12 2.9 (2.2-3.7) H2 CCGAGCTCTG 0.24 3.0 (2.5-3.6) H7 TCGGTCCGCA 0.35 6.0 (5.2-6.9) H8 TAGGTCCGCA 0.08 4.8 (3.4-6.7) H9 TACGTTCGCG 0.21 5.5 (4.5-6.7) *Adjusted for race, age, sex, amiodarone, losartan, and CYP2C9 variant genotype. Warfarin dose effect for each haplotype is shown as: Mean (95% confidence interval). p-values for each haplotype were Hi, p < 0.0001; H2, p < 0.001; H7, p < 0.001; H8, p = 0.76, and H9 p = 0.05). n = 185 clinical samples. Note: For each haplotype sequence the alleles are listed in sequential order across the VKORC1 gene - 381, 861, 2653, 3673, 5808, 6009, 6484, 6853, 7566, and 9041.

TABLE 2 VKORC1 haplotype distributions in European-, African- and Asian American populations. Haplotype European European African Asian Haplotype Sequence Clinic Controls Controls Controls 1 CCGATCTCTG 43 (0.12) 28 (0.12) 14 (0.07) 213 (0.89)  2 CCGAGCTCTG 88 (0.24) 61 (0.26) 12 (0.06)  0 (0.00) 3 CCGGTCCCCG  2 (0.01)  3 (0.01) 27 (0.14)  0 (0.00) 4 CCGGTCCGTG  1 (0.00)  0 (0.00) 11 (0.06)  0 (0.00) 5 TCGAGCTCTG  1 (0.00)  5 (0.02)  0 (0.00)  0 (0.00) 6 TCGGTCCGCG  0 (0.00)  0 (0.00) 15 (0.08)  0 (0.00) 7 TCGGTCCGCA 132 (0.35)  49 (0.21) 80 (0.42) 25 (0.10) 8 TAGGTCCGCA 28 (0.08) 34 (0.14)  2 (0.01)  0 (0.00) 9 TACGTTCGCG 77 (0.21) 56 (0.24) 11 (0.06)  0 (0.00) OTHER —  0 (0.00)  2 (0.01) 20 (0.10)  2 (0.01) Clade A (1, 2) 131 (0.35)  89 (0.37)  26 (0.14) 213 (0.89) Clade B (7, 8, 9) 237 (0.64) 139 (0.58)  93 (0.47)  25 (0.10) TOTAL (A&B) 340 (0.99) 194 (0.96) 119 (0.61) 238 (0.99) Total Chromosomes 372 238 192 240 (2N) Total Individuals (N) 186 119 96 120 Note: Haplotype alleles at each position are listed in the same order as TABLE 1. For each population the number of inferred haplotypes is listed. Numbers in parentheses denote proportion of individuals with given haplotype.

TABLE 3 VKORC1 SNP genotype tests and maintenance warfarin dose Mean dose Unadjusted Adjusted Genotype # (%) (95% CI) P-value P-value* VKORC1 381 <0.001 <0.001 C/C 49 (42) 5.4 (4.7-6.3) C/T 56 (47) 4.6 (4.2-5.1) T/T 13 (11) 2.3 (1.8-2.9) VKORC1 861 0.01 0.01 A/A 58 (48) 4.0 (3.5-4.5) A/C 49 (40) 5.0 (4.4-5.7) C/C 14 (12) 5.3 (4.2-6.6) VKORC1 2653 0.009 0.02 G/G 115 (64)  4.3 (3.9-4.7) G/C 59 (33) 4.9 (4.3-5.6) C/C 7 (4)  6.6 (4.3-10.2) VKORC1 3673 <0.001 <0.001 A/A 77 (43) 5.5 (4.9-6.2) <0.001 <0.001 G/A 81 (45) 4.6 (4.2-5.0) 0.004 0.005 G/G 22 (12) 2.6 (2.2-3.1) <0.001 <0.001 VKORC1 5808 <0.001 0.0001 T/T 104 (60)  5.2 (4.8-5.7) T/G 60 (35) 4.0 (3.6-4.6) G/G 9 (5) 2.6 (2.0-3.5) VKORC1 6009 0.007 0.02 C/C 110 (62)  4.3 (3.9-4.7) C/T 61 (34) 5.0 (4.4-5.6) T/T 7 (4)  6.6 (4.3-10.2) VKORC1 6484 <0.001 <0.001 C/C 77 (42) 5.5 (4.9-6.2) C/T 83 (46) 4.5 (4.1-4.9) T/T 22 (12) 2.6 (2.2-3.1) VKORC1 6853 <0.001 <0.001 C/C 72 (41) 5.5 (4.8-6.1) C/G 80 (46) 4.4 (4.1-4.8) G/G 22 (13) 2.6 (2.2-3.0) VKORC1 7566 <0.001 <0.001 C/C 74 (42) 5.4 (4.8-6.1) C/T 83 (47) 4.5 (4.1-4.9) T/T 21 (12) 2.6 (2.2-3.0) VKORC1 9041 <0.001 <0.001 A/A 56 (32) 3.7 (3.3-4.3) G/A 87 (50) 4.8 (4.4-5.3) G/G 30 (17) 5.9 (5.2-6.6) *Adjusted for age, race, sex, amiodarone, losartan, CYP*2, and CYP*3. P-values were derived from likelihood ratio test statistics of linear regression models in which the number of SNP alleles was coded 0, 1, 2 to represent an additive or co-dominant genetic model of inheritance.

TABLE 4 Characteristics of 185 European American Warfarin Clinic Patients N (%) or mean ± SD Characteristic (range) Sex Male 121 (65)  Female 64 (35) Race White 179 (97)  Hispanic 6 (3) Age, years (range) 59.9 ± 15.7 (19-88) Cigarette smoker 25 (14) Diagnosis Atrial fibrillation 95 (52) Arrhrhythmia 81 (44) Congestive heart failure 77 (42) Venous thromboembolic disease 40 (22) Dilated cardiomyopathy 37 (20) Valvular disease 13 (7)  Hypertension 85 (46) Diabetes type 41 (22   Malignancy 27 (15) Medication use Amiodarone 24 (13) Losartan 17 (9)  Torsemide 11 (6)  Acetaminophen 52 (28) Vitamin C 27 (15) Vitamin E 25 (14) Maintenance warfarin dose, mg/day 5.1 ± 2.5 Follow-up, days Mean 831 Median 545 Range  14-4032

TABLE 5 Comparison of daily warfarin dose and clade diplotype between the two European American clinical cohorts. AA AB BB ALL *2 or *3 WT ALL *2 or *3 WT ALL *2 or *3 WT Index Population (n = 185) - Seattle - University of Washington Average 2.58 2.37 2.69 4.79 4.00 5.15 6.23 4.40 7.00 StDev 0.82 0.87 0.79 1.83 1.10 1.98 2.71 1.41 2.77 SEM 0.17 0.31 0.20 0.20 0.21 0.26 0.32 0.30 0.38 n 23 8 15 86 27 59 74 22 52 Replication Population (n = 368) - St. Louis - Washington University Average 3.20 2.78 3.35 4.42 3.61 4.90 6.11 5.00 6.68 StDev 1.40 1.21 1.46 1.75 1.40 1.77 2.71 2.08 2.83 SEM 0.21 0.35 0.26 0.13 0.18 0.17 0.23 0.30 0.29 n 44 12 32 170 63 107 143 49 94 Note: some individuals were not able to be classified within the A or B clades

Example 2

Expression of VKORC1 mRNA

To explore the mechanism of the association between warfarin dose and VKORC1 polymorphisms, VKORC1 mRNA levels were assayed in human liver tissue and compared with the major VKORC1 haplotype groups (A/A, A/B, B/B).

A. Methods

Assay of VKORC1 mRNA. 1.2 μL of total cDNA from each sample was used as template for the quantitative PCR (using 9 μL reactions) in the presence of SYBR green reporter (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.). PCR primers (5′ to 3′-forward=ATCAGCTGTTCGCGCGTC (SEQ ID NO:14), reverse=AGAGCACGAAGAACAGGATC (SEQ ID NO:15) were selected from sequences in exon 1 and 3 of the VKORC1 coding sequence (Accession No. NM_(—)024006). All quantitative PCR was performed on an Applied Biosystems 7900HT and real-time data collected during the entire thermocycling period (cycling conditions: 95° C.-15 minutes for initial denaturation and 40 cycles of 94° C.-30 sec., 60° C.-30 sec, 72° C.-30 sec and a final extension of 72° C.-5 minutes). Each sample was measured in duplicate and the results from two independent experiments were averaged. All VKORC1 mRNA levels were normalized to GAPDH expression levels (primers (5′ to 3′): forward=ACAGTCAGCCGCATCTTCTT (SEQ ID NO:16), reverse=ATGGGTGGAATCATATTGGAAC (SEQ ID NO:17), and scaled relative to the A/A haplotype group (Mean value=1.49).

Liver mRNA expression data were analyzed following log transformation and the overall test for group differences was performed using an ANOVA. Pairwise comparisons between groups for significance were performed using Tukey's Studentized Range Test. Significance levels were set at p<0.05.

B. Results

Results are shown in FIG. 3. A graded and highly significant (p=0.002) gene-dose effect is evident, with mRNA levels about 3-fold higher in the B/B (‘high-dose’) group compared to the A/A (‘low-dose’ group) (FIG. 3—p<0.05).

All publications and patents mentioned in the above specification are herein incorporated by reference. Various modifications and variations of the described method and system of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention that are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims. 

1. A method, comprising: providing a sample from a subject; and determining said subject's VKORC1 expression level to determine responsiveness to Warfarin therapy.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of determining said subject's optimal Warfarin dose based on said subject's VKORC1 expression level.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of determining said subject's CYP2C9 genotype.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining said subject's VKORC1 expression level comprises determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by said subject.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein said determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by said subject comprises a quantitative RT-PCR assay.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein said determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by said subject comprises a nucleic acid hybridization assay.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining said subject's VKORC1 expression level comprises determining the amount of VKORC1 polypeptide expressed by said subject.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein said determining the amount of VKORC1 polypeptide expressed by said subject comprises exposing said sample to an antibody that specifically binds to said VKORC1 polypeptide.
 9. A kit for determining a subject optimal Warfarin dosage, comprising: a) reagents for performing a detection assay, wherein said detection assay is configured to specifically detect said subject's VKORC1 expression level; and b) instructions for determining said subject's optimal Warfarin dosage.
 10. The kit of claim 9, wherein said reagents comprise reagents for determining the amount of VKORC1 mRNA expressed by said subject.
 11. The kit of claim 10, wherein said reagents comprise reagents for performing a quantitative RT-PCR assay.
 12. The kit of claim 10, wherein said reagents comprise reagents for performing a nucleic acid hybridization assay.
 13. The kit of claim 9, wherein said reagents comprise reagents for determining the amount of VKORC1 polypeptide expressed by said subject.
 14. The kit of claim 13, wherein said reagents comprise an antibody that specifically binds to said VKORC1 polypeptide.
 15. The kit of claim 9, further comprising reagents for determining said subject's CYP2C9 genotype. 